A new housing development under construction in Vernon will soon provide affordable homes for families, singles and people with disabilities in the community.

Vernon Viridian, located at 3705 24th Ave., will include up to 20 residential apartments and is expected to be complete by summer 2013.

The B.C. government invested $2.85 million for the purchase of the land and capital costs for the building. Kindale Developmental Association will manage and operate Vernon Viridian.

Quotes:

Eric Foster, MLA Vernon-Monashee -

"Our government recognizes the importance of safe and affordable housing options for those most in need, here in Vernon as well as across the province."

"Developments like Vernon Veridian contribute to a healthy, vibrant neighbourhood. Each year, more than 1,500 households benefit from provincially funded housing programs in our community. This building will add another option, giving more people in Vernon a safe, affordable place to live and raise their families."

Rob Sawatzky, mayor, City of

"The City of Vernon has been actively seeking out partnerships in order to create more affordable and supportive housing for those in need in our community. We would like to thank the B.C. government, community members and Kindale Developmental Association for their work and dedication towards this development, which will provide a lasting and meaningful contribution to the liveability of this city."

B. Elliot, executive director, Kindale Developmental Association -

"Kindale has served the North Okanagan through the provision of housing and services for our most vulnerable community members. Vernon Viridian will be a welcome complement to our four residential homes and established success with the Under One Roof project in Vernon. We would like to thank the B.C. government for their investment in our community."

Quick Facts:

• Since 2001, the B.C. government has invested $3.2 billion to provide affordable housing for low-income individuals, seniors and families. This year, more than 97,000 B.C. households will benefit from provincial housing programs and services.

• Under BC's Family Agenda, government is committed to improving housing for low-income families, seniors and people experiencing homelessness.

• In 2011-12, the B.C. government invested over $5.6 million to provide subsidized housing and rent supplements for more than 1,500 households in Vernon.

• Vernon Viridian is part of the $207 million in new capital investment announced by Premier Christy Clark at the Union of B.C. Municipalities convention in Victoria. While these are new projects, this capital investment is not new money. It is money the government saved from the capital plan, through fiscal prudence.

• Kindale Developmental Association is a non-profit society that provides a wide range of services to people with developmental and other disabilities throughout the North Okanagan. The society began in Armstrong in 1959 as a small school for children with special needs and has since grown into a large and diverse organization serving 300+ individuals.

To learn more about provincial housing programs and services, visit: www.bchousing.org

Media Contact:

Kathleen Vincent
BC Housing
604 439-475